Ukraine's parliament on May 8 ratified a landmark agreement with the United States to jointly develop the country's natural resources, a move President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed as laying the groundwork for renewed U.S. military assistance amid its ongoing war with Russia. The deal, signed in late April, covers the extraction of minerals, oil, and gas across 57 resource categories, according to Ukrainian officials.
In a 338-0 vote, far exceeding the 226 required, lawmakers endorsed the pact, which Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko called a "historic economic cooperation agreement" in a post on X. She emphasized that the deal "creates opportunities to secure military aid from the U.S. government," though specifics on funding or timelines were not disclosed. Notably, the agreement does not classify existing Biden-era military support as debt, diverging from demands by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has criticized aid to Ukraine.
Zelensky: "A New Chapter" in US-Ukraine Ties
Zelensky, who discussed the agreement in a phone call with Trump earlier on May 8, described the pact as a "truly historic document" that opens "new avenues for bilateral cooperation." In a social media statement, he framed the deal as a "solid foundation for long-term security cooperation" and a catalyst for "mutually beneficial economic opportunities."
The Ukrainian leader also revealed that the call with Trump focused on advancing peace efforts. Zelensky stated Ukraine is "ready to implement a 30-day ceasefire starting immediately" but stressed that any negotiations require Russia to demonstrate "genuine intent to end the conflict," beginning with a "full and unconditional ceasefire."
Trump Pushes for 30-Day Ceasefire
Trump later confirmed the discussions on his Truth Social platform, writing: "Negotiations with Russia and Ukraine are ongoing. I urge both sides to agree to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire." While he did not elaborate on the terms, his post signaled a potential shift from his previous skepticism of Ukraine aid. The call marks a rare direct engagement between Trump and Zelensky, as the former president seeks to position himself as a mediator ahead of the U.S. election.
Strategic Implications
The resources deal underscores Kyiv's bid to lock in long-term Western support despite political uncertainty in Washington. Ukraine, rich in critical minerals like lithium and titanium vital for defense and green technologies, aims to leverage its reserves to bolster both economic recovery and military capabilities. Analysts note the agreement could also counterbalance China's growing influence in Eastern European resource markets.
However, challenges loom. Russia's ongoing assaults on energy infrastructure have crippled Ukraine's production capacity, while Trump's demand for European allies to "pay their share" for Ukraine's defense risks complicating future aid packages. With U.S. Congress divided over additional funding, Zelensky's government faces mounting pressure to demonstrate tangible progress on the battlefield and in governance reforms.
The deal follows months of strained negotiations as Ukraine's counteroffensive stalls and U.S. aid delays exacerbate ammunition shortages. Over US$60 billion in proposed U.S. military assistance remains blocked in Congress, with Trump-aligned lawmakers demanding stricter oversight.
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